IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) VA Rating Guide

Overview

A functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain and altered bowel habits. Common in Gulf War and post-9/11 veterans as a presumptive condition, and may also be secondary to PTSD or medications.

• VA Disability Code: 7319
• ICD Code: K58.9
• Category: Digestive

Rating Percentages & Criteria

30% Rating

Criteria: Severe; diarrhea, or alternating diarrhea and constipation, with more or less constant abdominal distress.

Examples:

• Daily symptoms
• Frequent urgent bowel movements
• Constant abdominal pain

10% Rating

Criteria: Moderate; frequent episodes of bowel disturbance with abdominal distress.

Examples:

• Several episodes per week
• Intermittent pain
• Some dietary restrictions needed

0% Rating

Criteria: Mild; disturbances of bowel function with occasional episodes of abdominal distress.

Examples:

• Occasional symptoms
• Controlled with diet

Symptoms & Functional Impact

Common symptoms associated with this condition:

• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Alternating diarrhea and constipation
• Bloating and gas
• Mucus in stool
• Urgency to have bowel movements
• Feeling of incomplete evacuation

Evidence Requirements for Your Claim

To support your claim, gather the following evidence:

• Medical records documenting IBS diagnosis
• Documentation of Gulf War service (if claiming as presumptive)
• Records of colonoscopy or other GI tests
• Treatment records
• Personal statement describing symptoms

Secondary Conditions Commonly Connected

This condition often leads to secondary disabilities:

GERD (Strong Connection)

IBS and GERD frequently co-occur and may share triggers

Anxiety (Moderate Connection)

IBS symptoms are often worsened by anxiety

Depression (Moderate Connection)

Chronic GI symptoms can lead to depression

Compensation & Pension (C&P) Exam Tips

Prepare for your C&P exam with these strategic tips:

• Keep a symptom diary for at least 30 days
• Document frequency and severity of episodes
• Explain how IBS affects work and daily activities
• List dietary restrictions and their impact
• Describe your worst symptom days

Frequently Asked Questions

Is IBS a Gulf War presumptive condition?

Yes. Veterans who served in the Gulf War theater may be eligible for presumptive service connection for IBS.

Can IBS be secondary to PTSD?

Yes. There is a strong medical connection between PTSD and IBS through the gut-brain axis.

Key Points for Your Claim

When filing for IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome):

1. Document everything - Every medical visit, treatment, and symptom counts
2. Get a nexus letter - A medical opinion linking your condition to service is crucial
3. Be thorough - Don't downplay your symptoms in your claim
4. Track progression - Show how the condition has worsened over time
5. Claim secondary conditions - IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) often causes other disabilities

Ready to File Your Claim?

The VA disability system is complex, but you don't have to navigate it alone. We help veterans understand their benefits, gather strong evidence, and maximize their ratings.

Related Rating Guides:

• GERD VA Rating Guide
• Anxiety VA Rating Guide
• Depression VA Rating Guide